Orchis masculax, Blue Butcher, the early-purple orchid 1 bulb

Orchis mascula, the early-purple orchid, early spring orchis, is a species of flowering plant in the orchid family, Orchidaceae.

Orchis mascula is a perennial herbaceous plant with stems up to 50–60 centimetres (20–24 in) high, green at the base and purple on the apex. The root system consists of two tubers, rounded or ellipsoid. The leaves, grouped at the base of the stem, are oblong-lanceolate, pale green, sometimes with brownish-purple speckles. The inflorescence is 7.5–12.5 centimetres (3–5 in) long and it is composed of 6 to 20 flowers gathered in dense cylindrical spikes. The flower size is about 2.5 centimetres (1 in) and the color varies from pinkish-purple to purple. The lateral sepals are ovate-lanceolate and erect, the median one, together with the petals, is smaller and cover the gynostegium. The labellum is three-lobed and convex, with crenulated margins and the basal part clearer and dotted with purple-brown spots. The spur is cylindrical or clavate, horizontal or ascending. The gynostegium is short, with reddish-green anthers. It blooms from April to June.

Choose a planting site that receives dappled to partial shade. If you live in a growing region that is very hot and dry, you will need to choose a location that receives a bit more shade than sun. Plan to plant your orchid bulbs in the spring when the threat of frost has passed in your growing region.

Dig holes with your fingers or a small trowel. The holes should be 3 to 4 inches deep and 2 to 3 inches wide. Space the holes 12 inches apart.

Place a bulb into each hole and lightly pack the soil around the bulbs. Gently tap down on the soil to ensure that no air pockets remain around the bulb. Water thoroughly and plan to water whenever the soil dries out. When the bulbs begin to sprout and grow, mist them every day or two with a water bottle.

Fertilize every two months during the growing season with a liquid plant fertilizer that is at half strength.